Borne on the Kempsey Mission, Burri was hassled by both his demoralised elders and by whitefellas. He read widely. At the National Art School, Sydney, he trained as an artist. His works were exhibited widely in Australia and overseas. He was also an accomplished musician. During the Redfern riots, Burri was media representative. Around Nimbin, Burri was not accepted by local Bundjalung people. He was a major agent of black-white reconciliation. He died at Sphinx Rock on 21st April 2017.